I agree with Mr de Robeck.
The sovereignty of the peninsula Macao appears to be a moot point. The Portuguese appear to have occupied it for 300 years, paying a rent or blackmail to the Chinese Government. It has been recognised as one of the Portuguese Possessions which we are bound to defend under the defensive alliance, but the Portuguese appear to have treated it as under Chinese or Portuguese Sovereignty just as suited their convenience at the moment. The appointment of a Consul and his recognition by Portuguese Authorities would be held to be an acknowledgment of Portuguese Sovereignty. Other countries appear to have taken this course.
I was dissuaded from doing so as possibly leading to misunderstanding with the Chinese Government. But it is proposed to appoint a Consular agent or Vice Consul, which officers I believe do not require recognition by the local Government, as do Consuls. The Foreign Office also propose to instruct Sir J. Wade in the event of any complaint from the Chinese Government to state that we do not intend by the appointment of this Consular officer to imply any opinion as to the conflicting claims of China and Portugal with regard to Macao.
Concur. He has made two representations regarding Macao to the Chinese Government.
The man gives a complete account of Macao.
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